When it comes to the cold-flu season, relief is the number one sought-after thing.

Another signature of the cold-flu season is the cooling relief of ointments.

Vicks VapoRub is a classic over-the-counter remedy.

woman sick on couch

It may be the first that comes to mind, but it seems Vicks has a competitor.

Tiger Balm is a similar over-the-counter topical.

It was created in the 1870s according toInsider, when it was developed by Chinese herbalist Aw Chu Kin.

Vicks VapoRub

According toByrdie, Vicks VapoRub has been around since the 1900s.

Although marketed for relieving cold symptoms, it has various uses in skincare.

The VapoRub is a product from the brand that also brings us DayQuil and NyQuil.

container of Tiger Balm

But how does the popular drugstore ointment stack up to its Tiger Balm competitor?

It is topically applied to the skin to relieve stiffness, aches, and pains.

Tiger Balm is safe to use as frequently as needed.

Feel free to apply whenever a headache arises, even multiple times through your partner’s nagging.

After applying to affected areas, it can take up to 20 minutes before relief strikes.

Vicks VapoRub has three active ingredients: camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, according toMedicine Net.

It is topically applied to manage coughs, aches, and nasal congestion.

To help relieve airways it is typically rubbed onto the chest.

To relieve muscle pains it is directly applied to the affected areas.

There are otherunexpected ways to use Vickstoo.

These two topical pain relievers are very similar in ingredients and uses, but which is more effective?

Tiger Balm is significantly more effective than Vicks VapoRub.

According toPearl River, Tiger Balm is seven times stronger than Vicks.

Its 60% active components contrast to the low 8.6% of VapoRub.

For burned and extremely dry skin you’ll have to find another medication.

But we have you covered on how totreat dry or dehydrated skin.

So if you’re looking for the most effective OTC topical, you know which to choose.